The IEEE SusTech Initiative seeks to contribute technical expertise and solutions to address sustainability challenges, including climate change. This initiative is growing rapidly, and new volunteers are always welcome.

Professor Wei-Jen Lee, University of Texas at Arlington, presents his Solar Trends overview of solar energy from the 19th century and how it has progressed to the present day. Topics covered include the theory of the PV (Photo Voltaic) cell, its effect and efficiency, and the evolution of solar cell design. 

Data Center (DC) energy growth accelerated by AI proliferation and generative AI evolution is catalyzing demand for disclosure and improvement of DC energy efficiency and sustainability. 

End-of-life lithium-ion batteries in electric and hybrid-electric vehicles are just now starting to reach their end-of-life. Battery recycling is needed to recover the valuable materials needed to support new battery production and reduce waste and environmental impact. The ReCell Center is working to develop, scale up, and demonstrate battery recycling processes that reduce cost and increase the profit of battery recycling.

Near-term sustainability goals focus on eliminating greenhouse gases (GHGs). Transportation is a major contributor to GHGs, and sustainability requires eliminating petroleum and fossil fuels used for vehicle electrification. 

To effectively guide that action, this talk envisions how sustainable transportation improves business as usual. The present paradigm of wasting energy on a 4000-pound vehicle to haul one or two people is unsustainable. 

The future requires going beyond...

Increasing Computing Energy Efficiency is a Key Requirement for Sustainability
The future has arrived for climate change and unsustainable computing energy use. Experts confirm that the globe warmed 1.5 degrees C–the threshold for dangerous human climate interference–in 2023, and each successive month has set temperature records. 

Then, in March 2024, front-page stories in the...

Efficient, Cost-Effective Polymeric Materials Design for Clean Energy and Biomedical Technologies via Biomass Valorization. Addressing technical challenges through cutting-edge materials research is the key to excelling in sustainable, clean energy technologies like fuel cells and electrolyzers.

Off-shore Wind Power Studies.

How can we meet our energy needs and still care for the environment in the era of anthropogenic climate change?

Electrifying Agriculture: E-Farms; Weed Management; Agrivoltaics

With the pressing need to mitigate climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, offshore energy generation presents a promising avenue for achieving sustainability goals. This panel showcases emerging technologies and discusses their potential to revolutionize the offshore energy landscape while addressing environmental concerns.

Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, demanding concerted efforts from individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide. Harnessing the potential of young professionals is crucial for driving innovative solutions and catalyzing meaningful change.
Recognizing the significance of engaging young professionals in the fight against climate change, the IEEE Young Professionals program has emerged as a key player in fostering a sustainable future.